Inside a career in Accountancy & Finance recruitment: Stuart Furneaux

Inside a career in Accountancy & Finance recruitment: Stuart Furneaux

posted 12 Feb 26

With a strong track record in Accountancy & Finance recruitment and experience leading high-performing teams, Stuart joined Henderson Scott to continue building his career in a business where he could influence growth and direction. 

Here, he shares his journey, his perspective on the Accountancy & Finance market, and what recruiters should consider when thinking about their next move. 

Can you tell us about your career journey so far and what led you to join Henderson Scott?

Before joining Henderson Scott, I was working in Accountancy & Finance recruitment, developing my own desk and later moving into team leadership. 

I was drawn to Henderson Scott because it offered the chance to grow within a business that genuinely supports career progression. The size of the company appealed to me too. It is large enough to have real presence in the market, but still agile enough that individuals can shape ideas and influence direction. 

Since joining, I have had the chance to work with high-quality clients and candidates while seeing the business expand into new divisions and locations across the UK and internationally. That momentum makes it an exciting environment to be part of. 

What stood out about Henderson Scott when you were considering your next step?

The commitment Henderson Scott shows to its people stood out immediately. You are supported through training, a strong tech stack, and an open-door culture with senior leadership who are always willing to share their experience. That level of access and support is invaluable. 

I also liked that the business is always evolving. There is a clear focus on improving how we operate and how we deliver value to clients and candidates. That mindset creates opportunity for people who want to grow with the business. 

How would you describe the Accountancy & Finance market right now, and what makes it attractive for experienced recruiters?

The variety in the Accountancy & Finance market is what makes it so interesting. One day you might be hiring a Finance Director for a fast-growing start-up, the next you are supporting a global brand with qualified finance hires. 

Job titles may look similar on paper, but once you understand a business, its culture, and what candidates are looking for, every mandate becomes unique. That is where consultative recruiters can really add value. 

Financial leadership is critical for any business, regardless of the wider economy. Because of that, the market remains resilient and buoyant. It is a space where trusted recruiters who understand their clients can build long-term relationships and strong desks. 

What have you enjoyed most about building and shaping the division?

For me, recruitment has always been about relationships and people. Delivering a consultative service to clients and candidates is one side of it, but developing people in your team and seeing their careers progress is just as rewarding. 

Henderson Scott has allowed me to do both, working alongside like-minded people who share similar values around quality, honesty, and long-term partnerships. 

What opportunities are there for experienced recruiters joining Henderson Scott?

There is real flexibility in how you build your career here. Some people want to focus on billing and growing their own desk, while others want to move into leadership and build teams. Both paths are supported. 

The focus is on hiring the right people and building opportunities around them, rather than forcing people into rigid desk structures. That gives experienced recruiters the space to play to their strengths. 

What advice would you give to recruiters considering their next move?

Recruitment can feel crowded, with so many agencies to choose from. My advice is to look at real success stories and get a feel for a company’s culture through what you see on LinkedIn and through conversations. 

For ambitious recruiters, the right environment can significantly impact both career progression and earnings. The people you work with matter as well. When you are surrounded by capable, motivated colleagues, it raises your own standards. 

 

Interested in building your own career story with Henderson Scott?  Explore our current opportunities. 

Want to hear more about life at Henderson Scott?  Read Thomas’s story progression and reward in Sales & Marketing recruitment.